Weight loss and muscle toning are two goals generally achieved by traditional methods, such as diet, exercise and strength training. In an effort to speed up the process, some weight loss hopefuls opt for a supplement to help burn fat and build muscle mass. Dietary supplements are not backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is attributed to a lack of effectiveness and safety risks associated with weight loss and toning supplements. Research any supplement carefully, and ask your physician before use.
Ingredients
Dietary supplements vary in ingredients, although there are some similar features in many pills. Green tea extract is a common ingredient in weight loss pills, due to its potential fat-burning capabilities. Bitter orange, hoodia, guar gum and heartleaf are other common ingredients in weight loss pills. The Mayo Clinic reports that these ingredients aren't guaranteed to be safe and there is not enough scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness of such products.
Some supplements contain ingredients that encourage muscle growth and toning. Creatine is one common ingredient that is used by some athletes to help with muscle endurance and strength. Creatine is a legal substance, unlike steroids that are obtained illegally by some athletes. Keep in mind that some muscle toning supplements contain other ingredients besides creatine.
Purported Benefits
Weight loss and toning supplements come with a host of promises to consumers. The ingredients in diet pills are designed to help consumers lose weight. Although some supplement manufacturers do add a disclaimer encouraging diet and exercise, others falsely market their products as quick solutions for burning fat. Toning products are designed to support strength training efforts to help increase muscle mass.
Risks and Side Effects
Weight loss and toning supplements have the potential of interacting with other medications and herbs you use. Caffeine consumption and supplement use may cause side effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, jitteriness and gastrointestinal problems. According to Medline Plus, some toning supplements carry the risk of weight gain. The FDA reports that weight loss supplements purchased online can be tainted with unknown and potentially life-threatening ingredients. Stop using a supplement if you experience any side effects.
Considerations
The FDA doesn't approve herbal supplements, and can ban weight loss pills if they are proven unsafe. Ephedra and heartleaf are two ingredients banned by the FDA; however, some supplements that are sold online still contain these dangerous ingredients. The FDA can help guide your process into purchasing supplements, but it is up to you as a consumer to gather all information about products carefully and discussing them with your doctor before using a new product. Supplements don't work in the long term, compared to other tried and true methods such as diet and exercise.
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